Archer: Matt Ryan putting up MVP numbers

"If our record was better, everybody would be talking about Ryan as one of the top players in the league."

Is it time for the #MattVP conversation from 2016? While the Atlanta Falcons record (2-4) may not reflect it, quarterback Matt Ryan has already put MVP-esq numbers up for the season.

The Falcons were able to add one more to the win column on Sunday with a 34-29 win over divisional opponent Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But with an already depleted defense, it was an uphill battle for the offense in the second-half due to injury.

The team lost both rookie wide receiver Calvin Ridley (ankle) and veteran wide receiver Mohamed Sanu (hip) in the second half of Sunday's match up. Thus, insert Matt Ryan. It was all No. 2 leading a back up receiving core on an all-important fourth quarter drive that led to a game winning 57-yard field goal by Matt Bryant.

Ryan finished the day 31 of 41 for 354 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INT, 125.5 QBR and 75.6% completion. Oh, and he past one of the greats:

Falcons Radio Network analyst Dave Archer said what you're seeing from Ryan is something only a few guys in the league can do.

"Ryan made some throws yesterday that only guys with that high-level of IQ--understanding, being able to do the math equation in his mind as to let the ball out early with air because I can't hold it any longer."

Archer pointed out this one play in particular where pressure was coming Ryan's way, and he knew where to put the ball for Julio Jones to grab it:

"I think that the guy is trying to sell completely out for his team. He's trying to do everything he could possibly do, and that includes standing in and taking shots to try and get the ball down the field. I think he's playing at a really high level. If our record was better, everybody would be talking about Matt Ryan as one of the top players in the league."